Networks nag Nokia to lower Lumia levy

Nokia's upcoming Windows Phone handset, the Lumia 710, has been deemed too expensive by UK networks. And they have pressured the Finnish outfit to lower prices in order to compete more effectively with rival low-end smartphones.

While the Lumia 710 is more powerful than most budget handsets in question, sales of the Lumia 800 allegedly failed to meet network expectations, leaving carriers sceptical over just how popular the new model will be.

Nokia kept schtum on the matter, although widespread reports suggest the price will indeed be dropped to allow networks to subsidise the cost of the handset with an affordable £20-a-month tariff.

The Lumia 710 sports a 1.4GHz CPU; 8GB of on-board storage; a 3.7in, 480 x 800 capacitive touchscreen; and a 5Mp camera. It's currently available on advance order, with UK retailer Clove pitching 710s unlocked for £300. The first shipments are expected in early February. ®